Bollinger La Grande Annee Rose Champagne, 2012, 75cL, Rosé WineBy Winebuyers

Bollinger has made significant improvements to their wines over the last twenty years. These changes start in their large vineyard holdings in the communes surrounding their base in Ay. With a wealth of Grand and Premier Cru vineyards in the most respected villages, and a dominance of Pinot Noir in all their wines, all the elements are in place for something special. 100% of vintage and reserve wines are barrel-fermented, which adds texture, complexity, and balance. NV wines have a minimum of three years on lees and vintage wines now at least eight years. Bollinger is a house continually on the move. La Grande Annee Rose is based on vintage champagne – derived from 19 crus, mostly in Ay and Verzenay for the Pinot Noir, and Chouilly and Oiry for the Chardonnay – to which is added 5% red wine, vinified in small oak barrels, from the Cote aux Enfants vineyard. Fermentation of the champagne takes place entirely in oak barrels. The ageing lasts almost as long as the time spent on lees for the NV wines. This champagne is suitable for both men and women to enjoy.